LGBT Center Of Raleigh Inc

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is full of wonderful people that make Raleigh great! They make a huge effort to listen to the community and meet their needs. I am always astounded by the number of services and programs the center manages with such a small staff. Keep up the great work!

I volunteer as a Communications Intern at the LGBT Center of Raleigh and my time here has been pretty wonderful. In the beginning, I thought they only needed volunteers to attend and help table events, but I reached out and supported them with the skills and expertise that I have learned in school, and the good news is, they're open for people to support within any area, whether you're good at event planning, or people managing or making videos. I was very glad to be able to support them with their social media developing content and raising awareness about the Center and also the event Out! Raleigh Pride. While volunteering, I received a lot of support and guidance from the Development and Communications Manager, Cotie, and the Director, Kori. They're always available and ready to answer any questions or concerns I had about the task I was assigned, about the Center, or about anything. They're also very understanding and flexible with the schedule for a time to meet up to update on the tasks. During my time here, I've had the opportunity to utilize and improve my skills as a communications professional. I think this is a great learning experience for anyone who wants to enhance their skills and also contribute to their community. I've always wanted to get involved in the LGBTQ+ community and this is such a perfect combination for me to get to know more people, do something good for my community, and upgrade my expertise at the same time. Highly recommend!

A great safe space with the most amazing, welcoming staff.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is truly a beacon of support and compassion for our community. They consistently go above and beyond by providing essential resources such as N95 masks, pronoun pins, and other crucial health supplies. Their thoughtful approach to ensuring that people have access to what they need—whether for safety, health, or self-expression—shows how much they care about the well-being of every individual they serve.

The center isn’t just about resources; it’s a safe haven where everyone is welcomed and embraced. The staff genuinely listen and provide a space that fosters inclusion and empowerment. It’s evident that this center is deeply committed to supporting the community in meaningful ways.

Whether you're looking for support, practical resources, or just a place where you can truly be yourself, the LGBT Center of Raleigh stands out as a place of love and care. Highly recommend!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh does a great job of providing resources for the community in Raleigh. From resources to a safe space to computers that can be used, they provide a much needed service. So thankful to live somewhere that has such an amazing LGBT center!

I love the service this organization provides the community and it's allies.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh has provided so much support for me as a parent of a trans kid. My son also loved being part of the youth leadership team and I think the youth programs are wonderful. There’s lots of variety so there’s something for everyone.

We received so much support individually that we started a group for parents and trans teens.

An outstanding organization that greatly improves the quality of life of LGBTQ residents of the city of Raleigh. Something for everyone from youth to senior citizens of every orientation and gender. Support, education, health, arts/culture, and many more opportunities for the community!

The LGBT Center is my favorite place in Raleigh. The people are friendly, the library is huge, and they have great snacks. It is a great place to just breathe and exist with no judgment.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is absolutely wonderful! Leaders from the center come to my high school and talk to over 100 students and 20 teachers at our annual Transgender Awareness Luncheon about trans experiences, respect, and resources. I have now started volunteering at the center and it’s an amazing experience! The atmosphere is so welcoming and kind; anyone knows they have a place there no matter what challenges they may be experiencing in their daily lives. The center gives people a place to be themselves and is vital in a usually red state!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh has become my home away from home! I have met so many of my friends through their programs. I cannot thank the staff enough for saving my life!

I have volunteered here for 3 years and I love every second of it. The directors are so sweet and motivated to keep the center thriving, especially in the last year since the center moved locations.

I started with the Center when it began and worked as assistant to the Directors for 5 years. I am an ally and this period of time was some of the most fulfilling years of my life. I learned more than I knew I didn't know, met so many wonderful people and was able to participate in some terrific events, including the annual Out Raleigh festival and standing with the community to fight for gay marriage. This is my family of choice and I can't express how much I have received in working with this organization.

Great place to volunteer, hang out. They have artists work displayed on First Friday's, along with food and beverage. They have many, many programs for all walks of life to support and help people thrive. Good place to make friends.

Wonderful, passionate (and compassionate) people doing great work in our community!

The LGBT Center is my favorite place in Raleigh. The people there are like a family and they do so much for the community. I love all of the programs and events and I never feel out of place or unwelcome. Thanks for all you do!

Amazing non profit doing wonderful work! Very helpful staff as well!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh gave me a place to feel accepted and loved in a time where the rest of my life was spiraling. The Center gave me light to focus on, when the rest of my life was dark and depressing. It allowed me to meet fellows in my community, create like-minded friends, and form bonds that'll last a lifetime. I am forever grateful to the individuals that work/volunteer at the center. The Trans Initiative has allowed me to further explore my identity and create amazing friendship. I love volunteering my time at the Center, and giving back to my community.

This is my absolute favorite place in Raleigh. The LGBT Center is a great source of information. They provide free HIV/STI testing, a comprehensive library, and a safe, judgment-free place where you are accepted exactly as you are.

When I was growing up, I was lucky enough to have something called the world wide web to use to interact and discover my sexuality and didn't see the value of a center in some urban area, being a bridge and tunnel. But after I volunteered at the center, I realized that there's still value in meeting someone face to face. Also if we look at the corporate world, while there's talk of the white collar being able to work remote, some companies like IBM want those who previously worked remote to come back to the office. Real connections aren't made digitally, they're made when you see the person and embrace them. The LGBT center has been my home where I don't just see people of my community, I embrace my family.

Coming from a family who is not supportive of me being gay this center and the group's associated have made me feel welcome and like I can be myself. And that is truly one of the best feelings there is. I've been to several of the events and I always have a great time. Also the library is great. I definitely recommend anyone who is LGBTQ or an ally to stop by.

One of my favorite places in the state! So welcoming, it's like a second home.

The LGBT Center is a great resource for the LGBT Community and their allies. Everyone is welcome. I hope you join us for some coffee, and educational event, or just to say hello!

I love the LGBT center! Everyone there is always very nice, welcoming and nonjudgmental. There are always fun and interesting events going on. And the library is great and has tons of LGT books for all interests.

Absolutely excellent! I only wish we could stay longer when visiting. Thank you for being such a great place to come connect with community and access an incredibly library. Here's to many more years!

The Center is an amazing place for not only the LGBTQ+ community, but for all who need a place that is accepting and loving! I always feel safe and welcome when I am there. The staff and volunteers go out of their way to make sure the community have a place to turn to! James and Kelly are tuly amazing individuals!!

I have worked for the LGBT Center for almost 2 years now. It has been an amazing experience. The staff works incredibly hard and so do the volunteers. Everyone is lively and the atmosphere is incredible. Never mind donating my time to be with these wonderful people and work for such a great community.

I love the LGBT Center of Raleigh! They are one of the best places to hang out in Raleigh and heard some great stories.

This is by far the most welcoming community I've ever have the pleasure of meeting and becoming a part of. Even as an allie I've never felt this welcomed. THANK YOU LGBT center of Raleigh for the awesome work you do every day.

The center is a great place to find information and resources for the LGBT community and allies.

The center has been an amazing way for me to get involved in ways I never thought I could. It has also helped me love my identity and to be confident with who I am and for what I believe in. I love the center and everyone connected with it

The center has truly been a safe space for me since moving to NC. I have met a few people and have visited a couple of programs in the past six months. I have had nothing but a positive experience. They offer a great number of programs as well as resources. After moving to NC I need help with finding a healthcare professionals. Their website has an extensive list of resources which was impressive.

I have been a volunteer at the LGBT Center of Raleigh since November of 2015 and just love spending my Sunday's there! Everyone there puts their heart and soul into the place. There has never been a time that I have not felt loved and welcomed. It has been a joy to be a part of everything they are doing for the community and I hope to continue doing my part for as long as I can.

I first went to the center because of my teenage daughter. The people were so welcoming and affirming, we instantly felt at home. I enjoy volunteering there as often as my schedule allows. I've met some really great people and feel safe and comfortable there.

This center is one of the most welcoming places and helpful resources. The staff will drop everything to help people in need, they are always available to stop and talk to and are just some of the nicest people I've ever met.

My first interaction with the center came when I was new to the state. Not knowing anyone, I was nervous the first day I walked in, but have since found everyone to be incredibly helpful and welcoming.

I have volunteered here for over six months. I have many experiences with a variety of profits, and this is by far one the most welcoming and well organized that I have worked with. Both the staff and volunteers are personable and engaging. The Center offers a variety of programs and groups to meet the needs and wants of the LGBT and Ally community, and we hav a number of visitors from across the US.

I love volunteering and hanging out at the center. It's a warm, welcoming, and safe place for anyone. Great staff and programs to help you with wherever you are in your life journey.

I am never fail to be amazed at the new things always happening at the center. The programming has grown so much in its five years. Great organization to work with.

I became a volunteer at the center not too long ago. I wanted to meet new people who I could relate to and I also wanted to help out in my community. When I first started I immediatley noticed that the enviorment I had stepped into felt like a second home. Every person I have met so far has been so kind to me and have welcomed me with open arms. I have only volunteered at the center a handful of times but each time I do, I get an oppritunity to see how many people the center helps. There are so many programs specific towards people of all ages, sexualities, and genders. The LGBT Center of Raleigh is a safe space for anyone, not only those who identify as LGBT, but as allies as well.

The number of programs, for the number of varying segments of the L, G, B, T, and even Straight population that the Center offers blows my mind, and continues to grow. Add in the biggest GLBT-themed library in the Southeast, containing many out-of-print books plus hundreds of DVDs, an extremely committed, empathetic staff and volunteer corps, and this organization has literally changed lives in Raleigh in the few short years they've been around. Even if you're not gay, please stop by sometime and be amazed!

Love this center! Great outreach, incredible library, and generally wonderful staff and volunteers. One always feels welcome and accepted.

Their calendar is always packed and whenever I go in there, the energy is just contagious. Helping LGBTQ individuals in the South is a huge job!

The center is a lot of fun. I enjoy spending time together with people there and feel less lonely being able to join a community which can be hard to do. I didn't grow up in a welcoming area for LGBT people, so I'm glad it's there as a resource.

I love the LGBT Center of Raleigh! It's amazing. Everyone is welcome and feels welcomed as soon as you walk in the door. We laugh together and celebrate all the wonderful victories we have had in the last year. The center has stellar programs ranging from a Transgender Support Group to a Faith Forum. There is practically a program or meeting everyday. Allies are welcome too and there is even a group for them that helps educate people on LGBT issues and LGBT people are invited, as allies are welcome in some of the other groups. The library is well known for having the biggest collection of LGBT themed books in the Southeast and they also have great DVDs. There is also STI/STD testing 2 times per week for everyone which is extremely valuable to the community at large. So come on in... there's always free coffee and great conversation. :)

As apart of my master's program, I'm required to complete a year long internship. After reviewing the list of possibilities I quickly decided on the LGBT center of Raleigh. I've always wanted to get involved in my community but was never provided the chance prior to this opportunity. I've been interning at the LGBT Center of Raleigh since August now and I absolutely love it. The center offers an array of amazing programs for all ages ranging from youth all the up to 50+. We even have a large and very well stocked LGBT library and DVD section where you can check out any book or DVD that interests you. It feels great to be a part of an agency that caters so well to my community. Our programs, events, and fundraisers truly makes every member of the LGBTQA community feel welcomed. I'm very grateful to have had the experience to be apart of a wonderful place like this.

I began as an Intern/Volunteer last August. As a member of the LGBT community, I wanted to do more for others in my community. I have learned a great deal from the amazing staff at the Center as well as the many volunteers and community members. The Center is warm and welcoming. Our programs are not only a great way to meet others, but also educational. This is a wonderful place to volunteer, visit, and be apart of.

When Amendment one was happening I felt I needed to find a way to support the LGBT community. As an ally in my heart but not really knowing anything about LGBT issues at the time, I sought out the LGBT Center of Raleigh and was immediately welcomed as an ally. I started volunteering there and educating myself through their library and many programs they offer. I now help run the Raleigh Allies group and help with the youth as well. I'm so glad I walked in to the center that first day! It's been awesome ever since!

I am a youth board member at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, and have been amazed by their commitment to bettering the condition of life for LGBTQ teens in the Triangle area. As a sophomore in high school, I approached the Center for advice in running a program for queer youth. The Center not only helped our group, QueerNC, get off the ground, but invited us to become a program of the LGBT Center of Raleigh. QueerNC is now fully funded by the Center and has been continuously provided with a safe space to hold events, the assistance of adult volunteers who are dedicated to promoting youth leadership, and access to an expansive collection of LGBTQ books that would otherwise be difficult for GSAs in the area to obtain for their meetings. Through the Center's support, we have been able to reach about 500 youth across North Carolina and provide resources to teens that would otherwise be isolated.

Not only does the LGBT Center of Raleigh have an expansive range of programs for all ages, it is also open to new ideas and proposals for groups, ensuring that all minority populations in the community have an affirming space to network. The board does great work in bettering the social climate of the Triangle for LGBTQ people.

This organization has changed my life in so many ways. It has meant a social outlet, as well as allowing me to become an activist for LGBT Seniors. I served on the board for 6 years, and now I continue as the program director of SAGE Raleigh (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders). I have met the most amazing people both as board members, staff, volunteers and patrons. Life changing is an understatement. I'm not sure where my life would be without the LGBT Center of Raleigh!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is doing an amazing work here in Raleigh, NC and assisting other centers in the area. This is an exceptional center with a fantastic board and executive leadership.

The work and visibility of this organization is truly inspiring! Raleigh is very lucky to have such a fantastic group of people doing amazing work for our community. These are passionate folks who truly do a great service to the LGBT community.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to volunteer here. After just a short time being there, the other volunteers have gone out of their way to make me feel like "family", which is great since I don't have any other family nearby. I am so proud to be a part of this community, and to be able to give back - to "pay it forward".

To put it simply: the people who give their lives to the work done here are exceptional members of the LGBT community and society at large.

I have volunteered with many nonprofits and been on the Board of a couple. The LGBT Center of Raleigh is as well-run an organization as I have ever come in contact with; the Board members ensure that by choosing good candidates and holding members responsible for their areas, as opposed to most volunteer boards where lots of talk gets done in meetings but then all is forgotten until the next one. And the paid staff of this Center are TOPS--I can't fathom anyone else in these roles than the ones we have, and it will be devastating when either feels the need to move on. Fortunately, the dedicated and fiercely loyal volunteer base will keep things going no matter what, but that is in part a testament to getting a solid, firm foundation long before this organization "went live".

We are so lucky to have this organization in Raleigh, and it continues to grow in leaps and bounds!

I have referred many homeless LGBT clients here and they have always been treated with respect, compassion and professionalism. This is not always the case with other nonprofits.

As a volunteer and someone who has received services from the center, I can honestly say I love this place and all the great work it does for the lgbt community, and it's allies.

I started with the LGBT Center from it's inception to today and it is the best 6 years I have given. The director is young, driven, caring and involved. The Board members play a regular role in events and activities and the number of programs being offered is growing daily. There truly is something for everyone in the LGBT community here and if we don't have it, we'll find it or start it. We have a large group of dedicated volunteers and we also have one of the largest LGBT libraries in the South East. I am proud to be a part of this dedicated group working to improve lives and educate the public.

This organization has brought the LGBT community together in ways that I've never seen in Raleigh before. It has embraced all of the differences of our community. There is something for everyone. It is a great resource. Their Sage program, teen programs, ally outreach programs and their LGBT Library are great. I wish the center would have been around when I was first coming out as a teen.

As a volunteer with SAGE Raleigh, which is a program of the LGBT Center of Raleigh, I have come to meet so many wonderful people in our community. In this day, when senior LGBT folks are more likely to be isolated and overlooked by others, the Center has provided a valuable safe space where our elders can gather comfortably and get to know one another. We can help others who need a ride to a doctor's office or a trip to the market to shop, learn about HIV and other diseases, get educated about financial matters and the latest technology, and have a plain old good time at social events. This has been a life-changing experience for me, and I know many other older LGBT people who have benefited mightily because of the Center and its commitment to SAGE Raleigh.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh has been a resource that is indispensable to the LGBTQ community. I am always proud to be able to tell guests we have the largest specialized library for gender and sexual minorities in the state and one of the largest in the Southeast. We're able to serve the community in more ways than I can ever imagine and I can't wait to see where else it goes.

I've been volunteering at the LGBT Center of Raleigh for over a year now and I can't express how much it means to me. I love meeting new people, and the Center is a safe and welcoming environment for members of our community outside of the typical bar and club scene. I've made great friends and had a wonderful time, but at the same time the Center has also allowed me to become a better Queer/Trans ally just by allowing me to connect with and relate to them in real life. There has never been a day when I volunteered that I didn't leave feeling like I'd accomplished something, even if it was just answering questions or providing good company. Every time someone comes in who needs information, is new to the area, or just needs an understanding group to lean on, I get a sense of what the Center really stands for. There are a lot of ways I could spend my free time and many ways I could volunteer, but I wouldn't pick any of them over what the LGBT Center of Raleigh means to our community.

An awesome organization. Their new space is very welcoming. The staff is young and fun and relatable. I don't know a lot about what they do, but I know they put on Out Raleigh, a big street fair in May that brings the community together. They also had a hand in helping Stonewall Kickball start in Raleigh, which has also done amazing things to bring the community together. It truly is the center of the community thanks to the efforts of the staff and volunteers.

As an ally, I was happy to find this LGBTQA hub where I have met awesome volunteers, visitors, and staff. The Executive Director cares extremely about the facility and runs an amazing center with his right hand lady, Kelly. I have always felt very welcome and appreciated as an occasional volunteer; and feel that this center does everything it can to make sure everyone feels the same. I'm glad that there are people like this organization who are supplying a safe haven for those on the fringe of society. Thanks for all you do!!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is such a great resource for the Raleigh community. All the programs are high-quality and run by amazing people who truly love what they do and care for the community! The monthly featured LGBT artists are phenomenal, and the volunteers and staff are some of the most genuine, kind-hearted, and fun-loving people you will ever meet. Every time I'm there, I inevitably have a fit of laughter and sometimes a good cry (caused by helping someone from the community, of course!). There's a reason the Center is often the fist call media makes regarding a breaking LGBT-related story and centers from around the country have been known to consult the Center for help!

I began volunteering at the LGBT center summer 2013 and have found it to be a place where anyone can feel comfortable! Great people, amazing programs and it's a warm community. A lot of diversity in many aspects as well as being flexible with new initiatives. This place is geared toward providing programs that interest all. I'm proud to be associated with the LGBT Center of Raleigh!

Thank you for your support and empowerment of the LGBT community in Raleigh and across North Carolina. For me as a volunteer of the LGBT Center of Raleigh, the center has become a place of empowerment, expression, and safety for social justice and advocacy for the whole community. From the availability of the Library, to the many programs and groups that utilize the center for socialization to focused projects. The work of the LGBT center of Raleigh has far exceeded the expectations of its founders and those that first imagined an open community center to serve the needs and interests of the LGBT community in North Carolina. Edward

The Center provides a generally low-stress environment with friendly people, so it's a great place for anybody who wants to gain volunteering experience and already has a lot on their plate. The leaders communicate with all the volunteers well. It has a wonderful library and lots of resources, and it's a good place for community members and allies to just hang out. Obviously you shouldn't disturb any events taking place, but you can come in almost anytime the Center is open if you need a friendly place to be. I know that sometimes I just need to be around people like me, and I tend to go to the Center when I feel that need.

There are programs for all four letters in the acronym. I can't speak for the gay and bi programs, but I can say that the Center provides some great support for transgender people. The trans* support group and supper club have friendly people in them with a wide range of gender identities. I've heard horror stories about gender policing within trans* groups in other cities, but I've never experienced anything like that here. This group is respectful and a lot of fun. I feel pretty comfortable in the group as a non-binary person. The lesbian/queer women's initiative is run by two trans-friendly people, so trans lesbians and queer women should have minimal problems in those programs.

I had limited experience with the youth coffee house program when I was still in high school, and I recommend it. It provides a low-pressure environment for LGBTQ teens to meet other people their age in the community.

I'll go ahead and promote my own program while I'm at it too. I run the open mic night. I aim to provide a safe, welcoming environment where the attendees feel free to express themselves without judgement. Not to brag, but I get a lot of great feedback about it. You should check it out.

I absolutely love volunteering at The LGBT Center. Meeting all the new and interesting people that I probably would never get a chance to meet in a normal day life. I recommend to everyone to stop by and check out what the Center has to offer.

I've been volunteering at the LGBT Center of Raleigh and have loved my experience from the start. I was always looking for ways to be better involved with the LGBT community and I found more than that at the center. It is truly a family that I have found.

James and Kelly are truly great leaders. When my mother moved in with me recently due to financial difficulties I was stressed. I told them the situation just looking for a friendly ear but they went above and beyond and offered support. They researched community resources for my mother and were willing to help her out. They truly are great leaders at the center.

I also have made some truly amazing friends while volunteering. All of the volunteers are so much fun and delightful. When I volunteer it feels more like I am hanging out rather than a job. The volunteers also try to help out as much as possible.

It is a truly amazing resource in the community to get involved with.

I can't imagine another place I'd spend time volunteering than at the LGBT Center of Raleigh. The place is filled with warmth and a genuine sanctuary vibe. I've been able to help others just by having a conversation, and in turn they've helped me too. I've learned so much from fellow volunteers and the wonderful Kelly and James. I've been able to enjoy some awesome bands helping out at events that the LGBT Center helps with and meet a ton of great people. The Center brightens my week and keeps me motivated during my busy work schedule. There's a ton of resources for visitors to use and the library is ridiculous! It's so large! First editions, fiction, memoirs, movies, it's amazing!

The Raleigh Center was the first place I went upon coming out. I'm so glad they exist and provide a safe and nurturing place for the community in the Triangle region. The people are warm, welcoming and make you feel part of them. Love this place, the people and my gosh do they have an awesome library :)

It is difficult to list all of the things that make the LGBT Center of Raleigh a worthwhile organization that, only 3 years after its founding, I had a hard time imagining not being in my life. From the awesome staff and core volunteer group, to the amazing library, continually-growing progamming, and dedicated Board of Directors, the GLBT community in this area has so much to be grateful to the LGBT Center of Raleigh and its Director, James Miller, for.

Keep it Coming!

The Center is a great place to meet other people in the community. It offers resources that cannot be found in other organizations. The Center is a place that anyone can go and not be scared of being judged or ridiculed. There are a number of groups at the center that everyone can get involved in. No matter what your age or likes you can find a place to fit in. The people who go there are friendly and very supportive of one another. The staff is great and more than willing to help you with anything from just talking to connecting you with professional resources that you may need. The doors are open and it is a safe and warm place to be.

The Center is a great place to get involved in your community and meet people. You feel like you are making a difference and helping. You make good friends too.

The Center is awesome and without peer. It provides a variety of services that are not available from other organizations. I am proud to be even a small part of the Center's work. One day, I hope it'll be more.

I have been involved at some level with the LGBT Center of Raleigh since it's inception and seen it grow from an idea discussed in someone's living room into what it is today. The Center has always been an open and welcoming place to those in the community, no matter who they are. There are a lot of hardworking volunteers and staff members who give it their all to ensure that the Center will always be a bright place for everyone.

The Center provides an invaluable service to the community. Its library is larger than some public libraries; the staff are incredibly helpful, friendly, and informed; and the atmosphere is inviting and welcoming to everyone.

One word can sum up what the LGBT Center does... Unite. The LGBT Center unites all of the LGBTQ Community and our allies. They offer many programs for all ages and genders. They participate with the DRA for First Friday and have 2 very amazing events throughout the year (LGBT Center of Raleigh Awards Gala and Out! Raleigh). The LGBT Center has definitely made a name for itself in the Triangle and beyond... and continues to grow by leaps and bounds! Having the largest LGBT Library in the Southeastern Region... you can find books and media on pretty much any topic. Be sure to check out the Center, and EVERYTHING it has to offer!

The LGBT Center of Raleigh provides an essential resource for the community. It is a place where visitors can find out information relating to the LGBT community...anything from LGBT related social events to support groups. Also, the Center is a great place to grab a cup of coffee, browse the library selection, and/or sit down and have a relaxing chat.

Excellent resources or just a place to hang out and meet new friends. Large library of books and media, great staff. Always a good variety of people. A safe place to be yourself.

I love coming here! This is an awesome place to come and feel welcome.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is one of the most of wonderful and inspiring non-profits that I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Through their collection of impressive community outreach programs and youth services, the LGBT Center of Raleigh has done so much for the Triangle area. I consider myself lucky to have been able to be a part of their organization.

With the many new programs being offered by the Center to people of all ages, it needs even more space! I hope the Center can find a new building in Raleigh and open a satellite location in Durham. People need the Center and all the friends we find there.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh has grown a lot since I stumbled upon it a couple of years ago. And, I guess, so have I. It might have been because of OutRaleigh. I might have visited it before then. I can't remember now. But since that time, I have learned more about myself and the world around me, from interaction with the wonderful people I have met at the Center and at Center sponsored events.

I didn't know anything about the Trans community. Now, I know a different version of normal that I had never encountered before. I hadn't given thought to what it would like to be "Gay and Gray", despite being both...but I've met so many wonderful older people at the Center that I can think now about how life just continues on and things get better if you've made good friends, and done good things. One of the items on the calendar says "We welcome people of all ages, identities, genders, colors, and sports team preferences." That's about how important these differences in people turned out to be.

But it takes a place like The LGBT Center to bring people together so that they can realize that it's just all about love for one another and what we have in common, and not about how you are different from me, and how I am different from you. The LGBT Center of Raleigh has given Raleigh a place where people can go, planned and executed fun events that people can attend, given us a library full of books that people can read and enjoy, laughter together during elections, despite a State voting for our marriages not to be recognized, and has a lot of growth planned for the future. I can't wait to see where it's at a year from now. Wherever it is, I'll be there too.

The LGBT Center was a lifeline for me in my coming out process. Through the center I've been able to make friends, get involved in my community and help others. The good work that the center does is absolutely amazing and it has groups to meet the needs of the whole community. When I was coming out, I asked if there was a small support group for lesbian women. There wasn't one, so they started one and it's proved very helpful for me and many other women.

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is a fabulous resource for our community. As an active member of the Gay & Gay and RDU Primtimers groups I have found both to be friendly and welcoming. The staff at the Center are always nice and uplifting, and our executive director James Miller has brought new life and energy to our organization.

Not long after I moved to North Carolina from Alabama, I found myself longing for a community of not just friends, but those who could personally understand questions of gender identity and expression. When I first stumbled across the LGBT Center of Raleigh in 2010, I knew I'd found exactly what I'd been seeking, and dove in immediately as a volunteer. Over the past two years, I've developed the close friendships I'd dreamed of having--a support network of caring folks who known first-hand the issues LGBTQ individuals cope with on an oftentimes daily basis. With programs for the age-identity-interest gamut--Gay & Gray, Trans Initiative, BInG, Open Mic Night, MClub, First Friday, Youth Coffee House (to name a few)--I've become immensely proud of how quickly the Center has soared. With 2012's OutRaleigh festival attracting nearly 10,000 LGBTQ-ally groups and individuals to Downtown Raleigh, it's clear that the Center is needed and cherished by the LGBTQ community and the Triangle in general. I count myself fortunate to have a hand in building the First Friday Program, as well as serving on the 2013 OutRaleigh Executive Committee. The Center is not just a community center--it's my second home.

I came to Raleigh with very few friends to speak of. The two friends that I did have introduced me to the LGBT Center of Raleigh and now I love every minute I spend there as a volunteer,and I especially love all the amazing and sincere people I have met that help to make the Center work. I can't imagine how many of our patrons would be missing out if the Center didn't push so hard to make sure that everyone who comes in or calls feels welcome and gets all the help and resources we can offer. Being able to serve the LGBT community is a wonderful thing, being able to do it with other people just as dedicated as you are is a gift that you don't find often.

Ex-Board member here. The LGBT Center of Raleigh was so needed and here it stands! Offering programs and cheering on the LGBT population of NC. It has a devoted string of volunteers and members who do everything they can to make everyone feel welcome and supported. I am so proud to have been on the board and to help the center whenever I can.